Kratom tea, derived from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa plant, has garnered attention in the wellness community. This plant is in the coffee family, Rubiaceae, and has a rich history in Southeast Asia, where it was traditionally used for medicinal and stimulant purposes.

In the United States, its popularity has surged due to its natural analgesic properties and mood-enhancing effects. However, its legal status and safety concerns are topics of debate.

This blog delves into the various aspects of kratom tea, encompassing its effects, potential risks, and safety considerations.

What Exactly is Kratom Tea?

Kratom tea is made from the leaves of the kratom tree, native to Southeast Asia regions like Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. Known by various names like Maeng Da, ketum, and biak-biak, it has historically aided field workers in boosting energy and endurance, coping with heat, and reducing fatigue.

Traditionally, the leaves served as herbal remedies for ailments such as cough, diarrhea, and high blood pressure, and as an opium substitute. Nowadays, kratom is available in different forms, including tea, pills, and powders.

Kratom Tea: Its Effects and Benefits

Kratom leaves contain over 40 active compounds, notably mitragynine and 7-Hydroxymitragynine, which interact with brain receptors to produce stimulant or opioid-like effects, depending on the dose. At lower doses (1–5 grams), it acts as a stimulant, enhancing alertness and sociability. Higher doses (5–15 grams) produce sedative effects, akin to opioids like morphine, inducing calmness and euphoria.

Interestingly, the mitragynine concentration varies geographically, influencing the tea's potency.

Safety and Legality of Kratom Tea

The FDA hasn't approved kratom for medical use, and the DEA lists it as a drug of concern. It's controlled in various European countries and other nations like Malaysia and Australia due to safety and efficacy concerns. The risk of abuse, addiction, and severe health effects, including death, are significant considerations.

Furthermore, kratom products are unregulated in terms of dosage and purity, leading to potential inconsistencies and risks.

Risks and Side Effects

Kratom's side effects range from dehydration and loss of appetite to more severe issues like seizures and psychosis. It shares dependency risks with opioids, leading to withdrawal symptoms like muscle aches and emotional changes upon cessation.

Concluding Thoughts

While kratom tea, legal in the U.S., may offer stimulant or opioid-like effects, it's crucial to weigh its potential benefits against the risks and legal considerations. The debate over its safety and efficacy continues, highlighting the need for cautious and informed use. Until then, we urge you to be patient and wait for conclusive thoughts on this subject before trying any of kratom plant derivates on your own.